April 21, 2025 – As the seasonal months begin to wind down, and many members head to cooler climates, we take a minute to wish everyone safe travels, and a safe summer. The club is beginning what is the spring wind down process, which involves trimming our seasonal operating staff, and schedules. You will see the golf course close at various times this summer for the required agronomic work that is essential to keep the grass growing and the courses healthy. If this proves inconvenient at times, we apologize in advance, and remind you to talk to the pro shop to seek golf play at reciprocal courses in the area. The golf shop will make arrangements for members to travel and enjoy seeing and playing at other fine courses in our area. Also, there will be times this summer when tennis and the pool area may be undergoing work to keep them in top condition. We will be communicating to all members when these necessary work projects will be in effect. Please contact the departments well in advance to help you make your arrangements.
In trying to construct a food and beverage schedule that accommodates the majority of dining members, the staff took into account the schedules and overtime elimination, and the difficult decisions of how to provide availability for usage of both dining venues. Closing either the Helm Club or the Wheelhouse completely for the summer would be a very difficult solution for a great many reasons. I will speak at the Monday, April 21 Board of Directors meeting as to how we arrived at our proposed initial schedule. Looking at all the data for both facilities, or the lack of adequate data for the last three years, was also a contributing factor.
The Board wants to discuss all the options before the initial schedule is formally accepted by the Board, and as conditions and numbers of members varies during the summer, we will be most likely altering the food service menus and times as the conditions change.
The club will also be looking at the budgeting process that occurs from May to July, and the costs of providing the amenities that our members so enjoy. Costs are continuing to increase, and it’s essential the club keeps up with escalating labor cost, utility increases, significant insurance increases, and the general cost of doing business in the Florida market. The challenge is one the finance committee and ultimately the Board will have to discuss and work hard to overcome, to keep the club on track to survive in these rapidly changing times.
Finally, thanks to many of you for your words of encouragement and support over the last 12 months. I came for a relatively short interim management assignment, and the Board was kind enough to extend my stay for a longer period. It has been my pleasure getting to meet many of you in this last year, and I look forward to seeing you over the summer, and into the next busy seasonal year.
